Fried Sage Leaves

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups vegetable oil

32 small fresh sage leaves

Special equipment: a deep-fat thermometer

Preparation

Heat oil in a 1- to 1 1/2-quart heavy saucepan until it registers 365°F on thermometer. Fry sage in 5 or 6 batches, stirring, 5 seconds (leaves will crisp as they cool). Transfer with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain and season with salt.

Cooks' note:
Sage leaves can be fried 2 days ahead and cooled completely, then kept in an airtight container at room temperature.